Have you known of someone who developed lung cancer even though they did not smoke a day in their life? Someone, such as Dana Reaves, whose life was cut short at age 44 by this disease as a non-smoker? Exposure to radon gas in our homes is the second leading cause of lung cancer, but is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Fortunately - it should be entirely preventable. Radon is an odorless gas that seaps into our homes following the normal decay of radium in the soil. Elevated levels have been found in all 50 states, homes with and without basements, and, even if your neighbors home tests normal, it is no guarantee you are safe. Drastically varying levels can be found in close proximity. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emphasizes that all homes should be tested, but some areas are at greater risk.
The EPA provides a national map to check on your risk based on state of residence.
Simple test kits to evaluate the level of radon in your home can be purchased at most hardware stores for less than $20. Many companies also offer testing. Certain states, such as Wyoming and New Mexico, are offering free test kits this month. January is the perfect time to test your home, since most tests require keeping your windows closed for the duration of the test (usually 48 hours). If the level in your home is greater than 4pCi/L (ideally if it is greater than 2pCi/L, which is the cut-off in Canada), seek help to repair the problem. Many state health departments can provide you with names of certified contractors that deal with radon. The EPA catalogs resources by state to make your search easier. The EPA also has a helpline at 1-800-SOS-RADON.
As we listen to the candidates discuss the cost of health care and ask them what they plan to do to lower our unacceptable death rate from cancer, we should point out (as an example) a simple method that could eliminate the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Test every home for radon. The research has been done, and the verdict is out. With radon we know the causes, we have the tests, and we have the treatment. A "no-brainer," our children would say. Yet, many Americans have not heard enough to test their homes for this killer. Spread the word!
For further information on lung cancer prevention in non-smokers, visit our blog entry. Further information on cancer prevention of all types and from all causes is available at Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time.
